Patagonia sues drag performer Pattie Gonia over trademark infringement
The outdoor clothing company is seeking $1 in damages and restrictions on the use of the name used by activist Wyn Wiley.
The outdoor apparel company Patagonia filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against environmental activist Wyn Wiley and Entrepreneur Enterprises Inc. in the US District Court for the Central District of California on January 21, 2026, according to the Times of India.
Patagonia alleges that the name Pattie Gonia, which is the stage persona of Wiley, is too similar to its own trademark. The company claims that the use of certain designs and logos could mislead customers into thinking the performer's products are endorsed by or connected to the brand.
The company is seeking $1 in nominal monetary damages but is also asking the court to prevent Wiley from using the name as a trademark for apparel. Patagonia stated in May 2026 that the lawsuit aims to protect its intellectual property rather than generate money, adding it does not intend to challenge anyone's right to creative expression.
Wiley, who has raised $3.7 million for environmental causes, accused Patagonia of trying to erase an activist in May 2026. Wiley argued that the legal battle could cost more than $1 million in fees and claimed the name was inspired by the Patagonia region in South America rather than the clothing company.
The dispute reportedly involves a 2022 understanding where Wiley could use the persona for activism but not for commercial branding. Patagonia alleges Wiley began selling branded clothing in late 2024 and applied to trademark the name in 2025.